Minor in Forensic Science

The minor in forensic science aims to provide students with an understanding of the fundamental concepts and principles behind the application of scientific techniques to forensic investigations and to the criminal justice system.

Advances in basic scientific research have had a rapid and dramatic impact in these fields and it is only through an understanding of these fundamental scientific concepts that the legal system may be effective in criminal investigations.

A minor in forensic science would also offer a strong complement for students interested in criminal justice to major in areas of study such as biology, chemistry, physics, psychology or engineering.

The programme is available from AY2008/09.

Curriculum Structure and Requirement

To be awarded a minor in Forensic Science, students are required to read and pass the following 6 modules as set out in the table below:

New modules offered in this program:

CM3301 Advanced Forensic Science (Modular credits: 4)

This module covers forensic identification, criminalistics, DNA profiling, narcotics and toxicology. Topics on forensic identification and criminalistics includes crime scene investigation, nature of physical evidence, characteristics of evidence, an in-depth study of glass and fibre as sources of evidence in criminalistics investigations. For DNA profiling, this module would focus on screening methods for biological materials, the various instrumentation platforms and the application of forensic DNA in Singapore crime cases. In narcotics, the topics covered include forensic drug analysis and legislation, clandestine drug manufacturing, drug metabolism and analysis of urine for drug abuse. For toxicology, an in-depth study of toxicological analysis will be covered.

SP3202 Evidence in Forensic Science (Modular credits: 4)

This module covers the introduction to criminal law, evidence and criminal procedures; applications of forensic science in criminal trials; and the science and practicals on crime scene processing and collection of physical evidence. This module would have a practical component that includes processing a simulated crime scene, collection and preservation of physical evidence. Students will learn the application of forensic science in criminal trials.